Motorcycle accidents are often severe due to the lack of physical protection compared to cars, leading to significant injuries or even fatalities. These injuries are typically catastrophic, having long-lasting or permanent effects that can alter a person’s life profoundly.
If you are injured in a motorcycle accident, you may be able to file a claim for compensation to cover treatment expenses and other damages. Some of the catastrophic injuries from a motorcycle accident include the following.
1. Degloving injury
This injury occurs when the skin is completely torn away from the underlying tissue, muscles and bones, usually as a result of severe friction or shearing force during the accident. Degloving can lead to significant blood loss, severe pain and a high risk of infection. Treatment often requires multiple surgeries, including skin grafts and reconstructive procedures and the recovery process can be long and painful.
2. Traumatic brain injury
Impact to the head during an accident can cause a traumatic brain injury (TBI), which varies widely in severity. Symptoms can vary from mild such as headaches and temporary confusion, to severe, including long-term memory loss, cognitive impairments and changes in personality. The effects of a TBI can be profound, potentially altering an individual’s ability to function independently. Treatment may involve extensive rehabilitation and in many cases, the damage is irreversible, requiring adjustments in lifestyle and ongoing support.
3. Spinal cord injury
Motorcycles do not have any structural enclosures to protect riders, leaving them extremely vulnerable in collisions. When a motorcyclist is thrown from their bike or subjected to high impact, the spinal cord may be damaged. This type of injury can result in paralysis, depending on the area of the spine affected. Spinal cord injuries often require long-term treatment including surgery, physical therapy and possibly lifelong care.
Legal guidance can provide valuable help to ensure that your rights are protected throughout the claims process.